Clarke shocked at exit...

Clive Clarke has admitted that he was surprised to leave the club on loan only 3 months after signing for Sunderland.

The left back was allowed to go to Coventry on a one month loan, despite only playing 4 times for Sunderland since being signed by Niall Quinn in the summer.

But the former Stoke captain has revealed he hasn't given up hope of being a success at Sunderland,

Clarke said: 'I certainly don't feel it is the end of things at Sunderland, not at all. I have only been there for three months and I am only just on my way backfrom injury really.

'I have been in and out of the team and I really need to be playing every week. If I can get five or six games under my belt, it will be a bonus for me. I just want to do well while I am here and what will be will be.

'I was playing for Sunderland last week so I wasn't quite expecting to be allowed to go out. It was a bit of a surprise.

'A couple of clubs came in for me the other week and I wasn't allowed to go, but I played a couple of games last week and then I was allowed to go.

'Obviously there are a lot of players at Sunderland so it is a great opportunity to come and play on a regular basis. I have been injured and then I came back for a couple of games so it has been a bit in and out.

'Hopefully I can do well and help Coventry get into the play-off places, if not further up the table.

'I have come here for a month and will play it by ear.If they clear it that I can stay for longer then so be it.

'I'll try to impress the manager and do well because I need games. Hopefully I can improve with every game I play and be an asset to the club.'